How to Start a Childproofing Service

Childproofing is one of the fastest-growing service businesses. For those deciding to start such a business, it's possible to do so for a minimum of expense. You can run the business from your home as well. To start a childproofing service, however, you must be extremely well versed in home safety and the best products for the job.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Apprentice with a childproofer if possible. If there are no childproofers in your area who will agree, look outside your area. If this isn't possible, it is still possible to teach yourself all you need to know about the business.
2. Start buying childproofing products and learning how to use them. You will need to know how to install a wide variety of products once you open your business. Include items like stove guards, appliance locks, window blind cord covers, window locks, toilet locks, drawer latches and outlet covers. Get several types of each so that you know how to install and work different kinds for different home needs.
3. Get down on your hands and knees and crawl around your home and the homes of people that you know. You might look weird, but you will learn what kinds of dangers exist in a variety of homes. Take careful notes about the many areas in a home that need childproofing. You can then start a checklist to use in your service.
4. Find out what kind of licensing you will need. In some states, a special childproofing test and certification is required. In others, all you need is a business license. Fill out all of the required forms and pay to get the proper licensing. Get a business line for your service calls and have that number listed in the phone book under your business name.

Tips & Warnings

• Your potential customers will have a wide variety of appliances, drawers, toilets and such that won't fit with one specific brand of childproofing item. Learn how to use several different makes of each type of childproofing item so you can help a broader customer base.